I recently bought an '81 z28 from CA. Of course, it has all the EGR and other emissions-related equipment, that I, living in Michigan, really don't need. I figured I could gently remove this stuff (saving it in case our legistlature starts giving a damn.), and get a bit of power back.

I've pretty much identified and removed all the unnecessary smog crap. I found bolts to block off the exhaust manifolds, etc. My question is about the carb.

If I remember correctly, '81 was the first year for a computer controlled carb- will removing the EGR related stuff affect this?

Removing the EGR should not effect the carb but if you removed the Oxygen sensor, Temp. Sensor, Thermostatic Air Cleaner, etc. these items will effect the computer controlled carb.

Alrighty, that's what I was thinking, but finding out it was computer controlled in the first place was a jaw-dropper.

I'll have to check, in my zealous ridding-of the california emissions crap, I probably pulled some of that stuff :confused:

While you're at it, why don't you just swap to an earlier model distributor and carb? Then you won't have to worry about any of that black box stuff. Just what I would do.

I was considering that, but it'd have to wait till more funds come in. It'd probably happen when I switch over to edelbrock parts, I figured I'd replace the intake, carb, and headers.

While you're at it, why don't you just swap to an earlier model distributor and carb?

Yup thats what I did on my 81 and I couldnt be happier.

One of the craziest things that will mess with you is the the solinoid on the front of the carb. If this is not working or disconnected, it will run like it's flooded, stumble and create more headaches.

You can replace the carb with a non electronic spread bore that's jetted lean and it should run fine. If you think there's a chance you will need to return the car to 100% stock emissions controls, get that carb re-worked and have that solinoid replaced. They are getting impossible to find parts for and even tougher to get someone who knows how to work on them!

Once everything is done to the carb stash it away! It'll be priceless!

Alright. Yeah, I'm saving everything I pull off. A new carb might just be in order then. The current one needs to be rebuilt anyways, (I have the kit and whatnot) so I'm probably going to make a decision after I get it all shiny again. :rolleyes:


Thanks for the quick responses.